Ofsted annual report

Too many schools are coasting along at a level of "mediocrity", Ofsted's chief inspector has said.

In his annual report on the state of education in England, David Ball highlighted the problem of schools which are not failing, but are not making steps to improve.

 

Government Response: DfES

Education secretary Ruth Kelly said: "There are still real challenges ahead, but we are now focusing on the rate at which schools improve and how we can accelerate that progress.

"Behaviour and attendance are getting better but we're not complacent.

"That's why later this week we will publish the Steer report from top heads and teachers on tackling bad behaviour.

"We need to increase respect in the classroom because even a small minority can make life tougher for teachers and harm the education of other pupils.

 

Opposition Response: Conservatives

David Cameron, shadow education secretary said: "This is the second time in a year David Bell has raised serious concerns about the quality and standard of education in our schools.

"This report, coupled with the news that nearly half of Britain's 11 year olds do not have a basic grasp of reading, writing and arithmetic, is further proof that this government is failing to get a proper grip on the basics.

"Instead of encouraging excellence it is clear that too many schools in England are offering mediocrity.

"A Conservative government would bring rigour and high standards to the system.

"Schools would be given more freedom to run their own affairs and as a result standards would improve.

"Ruth Kelly needs to start getting this right."

 

Opposition Response: Liberal Democrats

Liberal Democrat education spokesman Edward Davey said: "This report confirms that while there have been lots of change in schools this has resulted in little progress in many key areas.

"Improvements in key skills have stalled and many youngsters are missing out on the basics they need.

"Next week's white paper must address the way we test and asses children's progress through school."

 

Stakeholder Response: ATL